In a span of 30 years, this seaside city in Mexico went from glam playground of Frank Sinatra and John Wayne to overdeveloped tourist trap. But now—with a few lavishly designed hotels, restaurants, and bars leading the way—it's back.

Where to Eat
The fact that Shu is in the middle of a shopping plaza hasn't stopped Acapulco's young and stylish crowd from colonizing the Japanese newcomer for dishes like foie gras and scallops grilled tableside. Consider it a kind of high-class Benihana.
Centro Comercial La Isla, Boulevard de las Naciones 1813, 52-744-462-2001, shu.com.mx

Where to Play
With its faux-rock walls and hanging vegetation, the late-night hot spot Baby'O has been described as "Flintstones chic"—emphasis on the chic, since Madonna and Carlos Slim both party here.
Costera Miguel Alemán 22, Costa Azul, 52-744-484-7474, babyo.com.mx

Where to Stay
The Hotel Boca Chica, the fifties resort at the center of the city's revival, has been remodeled by Grupo Habita (Mexico's hippest hotel developer), complete with mid-century Mexican furniture, a slick spa, and a marina for guests who arrive by boat.
Punta Caletilla, Fraccionamiento las Playas, 800-337-4685; designhotels.com/bocachica

The marble-slab furnishings and dramatic lighting of minimalist architect Miguel Angel Aragones' new Hotel Encanto are stunning, but they've got nothing on the Pacific views. Good thing every room has a private terrace.
Jacques Cousteau 51, Fraccionamiento Brisas Marques, 52-744-446-7101; hotel-encanto.com.mx

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